12 Nonprofit Fundraising Truths Straight From the Trenches

Last week’s article “Go From Squeamish to Successful When You Ask For Money” apparently struck a nerve. Thanks to all who told me how much you got from that.

One was so good I wanted to share it with you.

Here’s some nonprofit fundraising insight from Bob Doan, Community Development Coordinator, Arthur Area Economic Development Corporation, IL.

I work for the Arthur Area Economic Development Corporation and I am the primary fund-raiser for the group. Here are some “notes” I try to remember each day.

Keep in mind our annual budget is approximately $80,000 in a very rural Amish community of 2,300 in town and 4,500 in the country. In addition I am also the primary fund raiser for our new Tourism group which has a budget of $55,000.

Our village provides us $30,000 total for both groups which means we raise another $105,000 in our small community.

I find that to be amazing. We are truly a blessed community.

1. I am fund-raising every day whether I like it or not.

2. Don’t ask people to do something (like fundraise) if they are not trained for or capable of doing it.

3. It is best if I fundraise for only one organization unless one of them is a church.

4. We consider every business/person who provides funds for us to use as “investors”. (Our investors range from $100 to $15,000 annually.)

5. You never run out of “thank yous.” And be sincere with them.

6. I NEVER “ask” for funds! We share “opportunities” to support our organization.

7. In small communities never underestimate the opportunity to “help my community” as an approach with investors.

8. Relationships raise money, not “asking” for funds.

9. Have a minimum amount in mind when discussing an opportunity with an investor. Don’t be limited by a “maximum” you have created.

10. Confidence in yourself and your organization are vital to successful fundraising.

11. Create ways for businesses and people to invest with your organization because many of them truly want to help.

12. Gifts-In-Kind should be an option for everyone and they need to be monitored closely by the organization.Your turn

How about you? What nonprofit fundraising truths do you live by? I would love to see your comments below.

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